114,000 visit Gozo in first week of Santa Marija

Gozo remains an idyllic attraction for Maltese and tourists alike, proven by the fact that 114,695 passengers crossed over in the six-day extended weekend leading up to Santa Marija.

Gozo Channel figures obtained by The Times show a rise of 7,723 in the number of passengers who used the ferry between August 10 and Thursday over the same period last year.

The number of vehicles went up by 1,306 to 26,603. A total of 458 trips were made, eight more than last year years.

Contacted yesterday, Gozo Minister Giovanna Debono said the Gozo Channel figures were proof that the government's efforts were bearing fruit.

"With just eight more extra trips, Gozo Channel has managed to carry more than 9,000 passengers, and more vehicles in one week. This is a very efficient result; one that maximises on the capacity the company offers," she said.

While these figures were important for Gozo Channel as a company, they had an important significance for Gozo and the tourism industry in general.

Throughout the Santa Marija period, accommodation on the sister island - whether in the hotel or self-catering sector - had long been sold out with requests still pouring in.

"August is traditionally associated with tourism to Gozo, yet this year's statistics prove that 2007 is a very positive year for the industry," she said.

"The government believes in sustaining Gozo as a tourism destination. We are committed to continue in our efforts to upgrade the tourism product, while establishing and promoting the island as a distinct destination."